Massive limphedema as elephantiasis in the background of an alcoholic chronic liver disease

Abstract

The cluster of lymph fluid subcutaneously in a specific body region or limb is called lymphedema. Two types of lymphedema exist: primary or hereditary, and secondary or acquired lymphedema. Herein we describe the singular case of a massive lymphedema of lower extremities called elephantiasis. After a complete anamnesis and differential diagnosis, an alcoholic and chronic liver disease as cirrhosis was considered the main etiology of this extreme case of lymphedema. Although lymphedema is one of the symptoms of chronic liver disease, the association between cirrhosis and elephantiasis has not been previously described as described in this clinical case. Through this case report, we discuss and develop all those etiologies of lymphedema, as well as diagnosis and treatment management.